Winter Sun Hotels 2026/27: 10 Luxury Escapes for the Cold Months

SALT of Palmar, Mauritius

Visit between November and January, when daytime temperatures sit in the high 20s, rain is light and the east coast’s trade winds take the edge off the heat. This adults-only, 59-room hotel sits on a small peninsula on Mauritius’ quieter east coast, created by The Lux Collective for travellers who want to see the real island. Camille Walala designed the bold, sunset-coloured interiors, and the rooms have no TVs. Menus follow whatever the hotel’s own farm, local fishermen and producers have that day, and time is split between the rooftop bar, the SALT Equilibrium spa and its salt room, and bike rides to Trou d’Eau Douce and the local markets.

LUX* South Ari Atoll, Maldives

January to March is the best window, with days around 31°C, a sea close to 30°C and a dry monsoon that brings calm water and clear visibility for snorkelling. The resort covers the whole of Dhidhoofinolhu, one of the largest islands in the Maldives, a 25-minute seaplane ride from Malé. Its 193 beach and overwater villas run along two miles of natural beach, and 62 have private pools. There are eight restaurants, from the overwater East Market to Japanese at UMAMI, plus coffee roasted on the island at Café LUX*. Open-air films play at Cinema Paradiso, the LUX* Me Spa has overwater treatment rooms, and the PADI dive centre makes the most of the reefs.

Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa, Johannesburg, South Africa

Visit between November and March, when days reach the mid-to-high 20s and the city’s altitude keeps evenings cool and comfortable. Set on a ten-acre estate in leafy Sandhurst, the Saxon is where Nelson Mandela stayed while editing Long Walk to Freedom, and guests can book the suite he used. Suites mix marble, wood and African art, and three villas come with private pools and 24-hour butler service. The infinity pool and gardens feel more country estate than city hotel, Qunu cooks with produce from the hotel’s own gardens, and the Saxon Spa has hammam baths and flotation tanks. It pairs well with a safari at sister property Shambala Private Game Reserve, which reopens in February 2027.

.HERE Baa Atoll, Maldives

December to April is the time for a secluded winter-sun escape. .HERE sits across two natural islands within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and with just nine private residences planned across Somewhere and Nowhere, it pairs understated luxury with an intimate private-island setting. It’s a warm-weather retreat for families and groups of friends.

Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman

November to March brings pleasantly warm temperatures, ideal for beach days, outdoor adventures and exploring the dramatic Musandam Peninsula. Set between rugged mountains and emerald waters, this secluded retreat offers traditional Omani-style pool villas, a world-class spa and a pristine private beach.

Royal Mansour Marrakech, Morocco

March to May and September to November are the best times, when warm days and milder temperatures suit exploring the medina and enjoying the city’s gardens and outdoor dining. A member of Leading Hotels of the World, this palatial retreat was created by more than 1,500 Moroccan artisans, celebrating the country’s traditional architecture and craftsmanship. Just steps from the medina, it has nearly four acres of gardens, private multi-storey riads and a 2,500 sqm spa, where a striking white birdcage atrium frames restorative treatments and traditional hammam rituals. Of its four restaurants, La Grande Brasserie and La Grande Table Marocaine are led by three-Michelin-starred chef Hélène Darroze, Sesamo is overseen by three-Michelin-starred chef Massimiliano Alajmo, and Le Jardin serves Asian and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Royal Mansour Casablanca, Morocco

April to June and September to October bring mild temperatures and lower rainfall, a comfortable time to explore the city’s Art Deco architecture, cultural landmarks and Atlantic coastline. The hotel brings together Casablanca’s cultural heritage and striking mid-century design, with intricate wood inlays, marble, luxurious fabrics and an impressive art collection. It has 149 rooms and suites, four restaurants and a two-level, 2,510 sqm spa with a traditional hammam, advanced treatments including Hydrafacial and Indiba, an indoor pool and a barbershop by La Barbière de Paris. Dining is a highlight, with La Brasserie by Michelin-starred chef Éric Frechon recently recognised in the 50 Best Discovery selection. Beyond the hotel, guests can take guided Art Deco tours, visit the Hassan II Mosque above the Atlantic, and explore the restaurants and beach clubs along the seafront promenade.

Bahía del Duque, Tenerife

November to March is the best time to visit, when Tenerife enjoys warm sunshine and mild temperatures. A Leading Hotel of the World, Bahía del Duque is a luxurious escape overlooking the Atlantic. With a renowned wellness centre, tennis courts, direct access to Duque Beach and an impressive collection of restaurants and bars, it’s an ideal base for both relaxation and outdoor adventure.

The Chedi El Gouna, Egypt

Temperatures average around 28°C in November, and Egypt enjoys warm sunshine well into April. A Leading Hotels of the World property, The Chedi El Gouna is a stylish Red Sea escape that blends contemporary design with a serene beachfront setting. Expect pristine beaches, world-class water sports, exceptional dining and restorative wellness experiences.

The Reserve, Madeira

Visit between November and March, when Madeira enjoys mild temperatures. A Leading Hotel of the World, The Reserve is an elevated hotel-within-a-hotel experience that combines personalised service, contemporary luxury and sweeping Atlantic views. Coastal walks, whale watching, exceptional dining and wellness experiences make it an ideal winter getaway.

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